Prinsen

Prinsen is the Dutch plural of prins, meaning princes. In Dutch usage, prins denotes a male member of a royal family who holds a princely title, though the exact status and rules of succession vary by country and historical period. Prinsen thus refers to multiple princes in historical records, heraldry, literature, or contemporary references.

Etymology and linguistic notes: The Dutch word prins derives from Middle Dutch prins, which in turn comes from Old French prince, from Latin princeps “chief, first.” The term has been part of the Dutch language since the medieval era and remains the standard designation for royal or noble male titles in Dutch.

Surname usage: Prinsen is also a Dutch surname. It is typically derived from the given name Prins (or from a nickname linked to princely status) and is most common in the Netherlands and parts of Belgium. As a surname, Prinsen usually indicates historical patronymic or toponymic origins and does not imply actual royal status for contemporary bearers.

Modern usage: In contemporary Dutch, pr refers to multiple princes when discussing royal families or historical narratives. The plural form is used in news reports, biographies, genealogies, and ceremonial contexts to refer to more than one prince. The term also appears in cultural works, where it may appear alongside related forms such as prinses (princess) and prinselijk (princely).

See also: Prins, Prinses, Prinselijk.

Note: This article uses standard Dutch spelling and aims for a concise, neutral overview of the term’s meaning, etymology, and usage.